SafeZone

What is SafeZone?

SafeZone is a series of interactive trainings aimed at helping students and employees develop a better understanding of LGBTQ+ experiences and become effective allies of this community. In each SafeZone training participants are challenged to listen, share and grow.

SafeZone includes 4 distinct training opportunities: 101, Understanding Sexual Identity, Understanding Gender Variation, and The Importance of Being an Ally. Those who are interested in completing the SafeZone program are encouraged to start by attending SafeZone 101 then completing the additional trainings in any order. "Special Topics" workshops will also be offered to continue engaging allies who have completed all four trainings.

Individuals will receive a certificate for each training they complete. Those who complete all four trainings will receive special recognition by the Department of Global Diversity and Inclusion showing their commitment to providing a "safe space" at Columbus State and beyond.

Learning Outcomes

• Participants will gain a new and more informed understanding of LGBTQ+ experiences• Participants will become stronger allies by developing empathy, confidence, and sensitivity• Participants will have a better understanding of the resources available for the LGBTQ+ and ally community• Participants will feel more empowered to support members of the LGBTQ+ community and challenge discrimination

Workshops

SafeZone 101

SafeZone 101 is the starting point for learning about the LGBTQ+ community and developing safe spaces for students and employees at Columbus State who identify as LGBTQ+. The training includes information sharing, reflective exercises, and interactive activities to help participants become more informed and effective allies. Upon completion of 101, interested participants are encouraged to take the SafeZone pledge online and sign-up for additional SafeZone trainings.

SafeZone: Understanding Gender Variation

Understanding Gender Variation includes conversation and activities that focus on gender identity, expression, and biological sex. Special attention will be given to identities, expressions, and physical traits that defy societal norms and expectations. Participants should leave this workshop with a better understanding of how to be an ally to transgender individuals and other gender variant populations.

SafeZone: Understanding Sexual Identity

Understanding Sexual Identity includes conversation and activities that focus on sexual identity, orientation, attraction, and preference. Sexuality is explored from both scientific/theoretical perspectives and personal accounts. Participants should leave this workshop recognizing the breadth of sexual identities found in society, the privileges that accompany the heterosexual experience, and ways to be an ally to persons with varying sexual identities.

SafeZone: Importance of Being an Ally

The Importance of Being an Ally takes a closer look at the wide range of challenges faced by members of the LGBT+ community and highlights ways allies can provide support, challenge systemic discrimination, and make Columbus State a safe place for everyone.

Give us your feedback and make the pledge!

If you recently participated in a SafeZone workshop we want to know about your experience. Please click here to take a brief survey (less than 5 minutes). After completing the survey we will send you a certificate for your participation in the training.

The survey also includes an option at the bottom to take the, "SafeZone pledge". If you elect to take the pledge we will also send you a placard and/or button that you can use to display your commitment to being a SafeZone Ally of the LGBTQ+ community.

For more information about SafeZone or to schedule a workshop for your group please contact Brett Welsh at bwelsh7@cscc.edu or 287-2426.